Ho-Chunks buy land in Beloit

BELOIT (AP) - The Ho-Chunk Nation has bought about 30 acres of land in Beloit where the St. Croix and Bad River Chippewa bands have wanted to build a casino.

The Ho-Chunk Nation says it's interested in developing economic opportunities in Beloit.

The Chippewa casino application has been in process for a decade but was rejected earlier this year by the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs. The tribes are suing the government over that decision.

Chippewa spokesman Joe Hunt said the Ho-Chunk purchase doesn't mean the St. Croix and Bad River project is dead.

Beloit city manager Larry Arft says he hopes all the tribes can find a way to work together toward the casino project.

The Chippewa tribes have options on adjacent land where there were plans to build a hotel and water park.